Tuesday 14 June 2011

What inspired Nelson Mandela?

I was watching an incredible film the other night about the rugby world cup in South Africa, Invictus.

Evidently one of the things that inspired Nelson Mandela through his time on Robin  Island was the poem invictus, below.

we all have our dark times, though fortunately few of us have to endure what Nelson did. I am curious, what inspies you and keeps you focused during your bleak moments?

W. E. Henley

Invictus

OUT of the night that covers me,

Black as the pit from pole to pole,

I thank whatever gods may be

For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance

I have not winced nor cried aloud.

Under the bludgeonings of chance

My head is bloody, but unbow'd.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears

Looms but the Horror of the shade,

And yet the menace of the years

Finds and shall find me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,

How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate:

I am the captain of my soul.

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